Like everyone else, it depends on the situation. I spend time trying to figure out how to save money at the grocery store by taking an hour or so a week and making a list and cross checking with coupons, etc. However, there are also some things that I do that may cost extra- like I know that the hamburger helper meal cost more than the pasta and sauce and beef would if I made if from scratch, but that would mean monitoring lots of pots and having to stay at the stove. With the hamburger helper I put it all in the pot, set it to cook and then I can play with my DD or something else. I love having the choice though and if I can save time and money then that is the best!

I agree that it's personal preference and that it's great that we can all make the choices that feel right for us.

I like to save money. However, dh and I know our limits, and we're realistic, i.e.: "If we buy all the project materials, will we ever get around to doing it?" We can do a lot of cosmetic home improvements ourselves, but we do hire out for electrical work and fence/gate construction. I actually enjoy painting rooms and sewing things like valances and slipcovers, and I like reupholstering my dining room chair cushions. So, if it's something I enjoy, and I save money by doing it, then saving time doesn't matter as much.

If it's something I don't enjoy, like scrubbing tile grout (do you know how much I loathe tile grout?), then I will persuade dh to do it - but then I have to do "one of his chores" . . . but honestly, I'd rather!

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Attaining financial freedom is like eating an elephant . . . it takes one bite at a time.